Burges Salmon has elected Chris Jackson as its new managing partner, replacing the incumbent Guy Stobart.

Jackson (pictured), who joined the firm in 1991 and has been a commercial disputes partner since 1997, will be appointed to the position on 1 May, 2009.

Jackson specialises in both rail industry and safety and will retain a strategic role with certain key clients after taking up the post next year.

Commenting on his appointment, Jackson said: "I am committed to this new and exciting challenge and grateful to my partners for entrusting me with this role.

"Burges Salmon is a firm with a rare combination of stability, drive, innovation and quality. I welcome the opportunity to play a central part in the next phase in its evolution."

He added: "Guy has worked successfully and tirelessly for the firm. He has helped to create a strong platform for which we are all grateful.

"We will continue to draw on the traditional strengths of partnership applied effectively and with imagination in this uncertain, competitive age."

The news comes days after international firm Taylor Wessing opted to re-elect Martin Winter as its senior partner. Winter was originally elected in 2005 and will begin his second three-year term at the beginning of November.